2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 560 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLS | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |