1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volkswagen Golf (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
