1985 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 535 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
