2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 25 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | GTI |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
