1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 274 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
