2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,950 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (137 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 weights approximately 653 kg more than 1986 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 C30 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 C30. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 C30 (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 371 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C30 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2950 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 907 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
