2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP) has 189 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 980 kg more than 1989 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, 1989 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 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 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
