2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 281 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Golf is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 266 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1521 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
