2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
