2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 8 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 212 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | GTI |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
