1981 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1495 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | R |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
