1996 Mercedes-Benz V vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1250 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 V (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz V | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | V | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2410 mm |
