2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 2 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 518 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 630 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 102.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |