1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 308 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 420 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
