1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 606 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 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 166 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |