1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 536 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Mercedes-Benz S 2006 Volkswagen Golf
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Golf
Year Released 1999 2006
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4966 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 302 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 460 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1854 kg 1318 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 55 L