1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 650 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1895 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 470 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1354 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |