2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 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 Vaneo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (90 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (185 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 2008 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vaneo | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
