2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1378 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz C 1999 Volkswagen Golf
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model C Golf
Year Released 2009 1999
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1794 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 181 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2830 kg 1452 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1450 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 62 L