1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (129 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 625 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
