1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2010 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 184 kg more than 2010 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | 2010 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | GTI |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
