1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 660 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Golf | GLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 116 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4529 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1887 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1699 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2756 mm |