2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 400 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4724 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2766 mm |
