1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 94 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2651 mm |
