2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 291 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.2 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 4.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
