2004 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 694 kg more than 2003 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1799 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2512 mm |
