1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (203 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 423 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Golf | C |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1093 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 203 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 77 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |