2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 323 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 789 kg more than 2012 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 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 561 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Mercedes-Benz S 2012 Volkswagen Golf
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Golf
Year Released 2002 2012
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 493 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 801 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed automated manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2135 kg 1346 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4199 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 55 L


 

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