2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (303 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1180 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2550 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
