2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 8 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 940 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
