2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1099 kg more than 2012 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 2012 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | GL | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5459 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 383 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1346 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |