1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,463 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 (192 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 58 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. (235 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2463 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
