1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 618 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
