1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (204 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 146 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 380 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
