1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 31 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 480 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
