1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 265 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
