2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 53 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | GTI |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
