2008 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,688 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Golf (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. (154 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1198 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G 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 G (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1990 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz G | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2688 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 152 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2275 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
