1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 159 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.

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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. 2013 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Mercedes-Benz S 2013 Volkswagen Golf
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Golf
Year Released 1985 2013
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2746 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 154 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 224 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1401 kg
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 4201 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1779 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2578 mm