2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 222 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1213 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
