2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 102 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vaneo | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
