1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 23 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 466 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
