1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 154 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 578 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
