2003 Mercedes-Benz V vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP) has 90 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1170 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | V | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2410 mm |
