1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 220 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (202 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Golf |
Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 95.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2480 mm |