2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 174 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2008 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| 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 | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
