2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 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 3,222 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 612 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (501 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3222 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 501 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1885 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
