2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | GTI |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
