2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 575 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (560 Nm) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
