2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,220 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 375 kg more than 2004 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 S (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3220 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 479 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
