2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 708 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (410 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |
