2012 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (203 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2143 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4606 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1459 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
