1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 249 kg more than 2004 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 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 S (316 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
