2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 219 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
