2011 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 473 more horse power than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 995 kg more than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 675 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1992 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1992 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 536 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 799 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5245 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1473 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3165 mm | 2480 mm |
