1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 223 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
