1977 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | E |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1805 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
