1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
