2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1204 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | GL | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 540 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2459 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2520 mm |