2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen T5
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 T5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen T5 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 486 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen T5.
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 T5, 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 (1,000 Nm) has 600 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen T5. (400 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen T5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | T5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
