2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 700 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz C 1985 Volkswagen Golf
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model C Golf
Year Released 2009 1985
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2496 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 201 HP 54 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 2900 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 68.4 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.2:1 9.5:1
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 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1530 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.6 L/100km 6.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 55 L