2004 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 102 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
