2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 325 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
