2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (169 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 361 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen T5.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | T5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 80 L |
