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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 5600 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 350 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
