2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 940 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 576 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Mercedes-Benz S 1988 Volkswagen Golf
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Golf
Year Released 2002 1988
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 1763 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 493 HP 157 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 801 Nm 225 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3800 RPM
Top Speed 250 km/hour 204 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 4.8 seconds 8.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2135 kg 1195 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4040 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2490 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 55 L


 

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