2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 251 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
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 T5, 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 T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | T5 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
