2008 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 378 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
