2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 370 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 687 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 510 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 830 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1358 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |