1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 654 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 756 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |