1974 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 16 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2578 mm |
