2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 421 more horse power than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 35 kg more than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 685 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1992 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1992 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
