1985 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (109 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 734 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Jetta | E |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 926 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4698 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2015 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1397 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2760 mm |
