2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 380 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.6 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |