2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (161 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 878 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1990 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2480 mm |
