1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1540 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
