1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 74 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
