2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 397 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 761 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf 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 SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 660 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.3 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
