1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 310 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.8 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
