1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 330 kg more than 1997 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 C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 C (310 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Golf | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4592 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1445 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |