2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (180 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 569 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm) has 465 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (236 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2650 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 701 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
