1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 420 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2590 mm |
