2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 350 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.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
