1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 120 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 230 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4554 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.3 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
