1989 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E (382 HP) has 329 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz E (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | E |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 382 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4869 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2873 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
