1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 152 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
