1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1987 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. (55 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 740 kg more than 1987 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, 1987 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 (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 1987 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
