1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (356 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 356 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 40 L |
