1972 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 199 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
