2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 504 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (82 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1471 cc |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 900 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
