1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTD is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen GTD. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen GTD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 281 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen GTD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTD, 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 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Volkswagen GTD | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | GTD |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
