2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 48 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (190 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
