2001 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 318 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 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz E (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
