1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,687 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 70 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1687 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 169 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
