1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 60 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
