2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford C-MAX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford C-MAX would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford C-MAX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 37 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2003 Ford C-MAX (344 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford C-MAX has manual transmission. 2003 Ford C-MAX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | C-MAX | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
