2011 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1540 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2011 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Golf |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
