2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 501 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 530 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
