2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 593 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3221 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1885 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
