2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 113 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | GTI |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
