2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1237 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2454 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
