1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C (298 HP) has 245 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 750 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2013 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Jetta | C |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 298 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 12.2 : 1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 141 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1997 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1406 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
