2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (90 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 715 kg more than 1980 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 Vaneo (185 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vaneo | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
