2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 279 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | GTI |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 239 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
