1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 230 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
