1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 420 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2580 mm |
