2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1282 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
