2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,220 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1020 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 S 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 S. 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 S (479 Nm) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3220 cc | 1091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 1800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 479 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 16.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
