1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G (125 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2480 mm |
