1983 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 695 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Jetta |
Year Released | 1983 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |