1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2008 Volkswagen GLI

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GLI is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen GLI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen GLI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 372 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen GLI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen GLI is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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 500 (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen GLI. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen GLI.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 2008 Volkswagen GLI
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model 500 GLI
Year Released 1985 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4973 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 245 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 4750 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 399 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 1800 RPM
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1608 kg 1236 kg
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2580 mm