1999 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 489 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK (349 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. (279 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Jetta | GLK |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1887 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2756 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
