1991 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190. (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 167 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190. (150 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
