2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is newer by 27 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 1163 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.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (460 Nm) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E500 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1919 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
