2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 341 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLS | Golf |
Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 402 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 600 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1394 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4534 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1882 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1417 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |