2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 288 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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 SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1990 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
