1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. (132 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190.
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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
