1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (73 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 964 kg more than 1980 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Jetta |
Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1854 kg | 890 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 40 L |