2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 400 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 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, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.6 mm |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 14 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |