2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 705 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1915 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
