1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 305 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2480 mm |
