2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 561 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | GLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4536 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2016 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1669 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2755 mm |
