1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 107 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1293 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
