2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 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 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 590 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2604 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 425 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
