2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 5 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 313 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 543 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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 (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 439 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | GTI |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.9 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
