2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 415 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2512 mm |
