1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 870 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |