1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 (132 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 272 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Citi, 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Citi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 1978 Volkswagen Citi | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | Citi |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 948 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
