1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 12 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
