1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 (192 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 69 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190.

Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. (235 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model 190 Jetta
Year Released 1989 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2463 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 192 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 235 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4250 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 1300 kg 1369 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4644 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1482 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2651 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L