2000 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. (162 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 144 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Mercedes-Benz C 2012 Volkswagen Golf
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model C Golf
Year Released 2000 2012
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 162 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1346 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4199 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 69 L 55 L