2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1270 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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 Viano (305 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viano | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2480 mm |
