1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 36 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
