2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 20 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK (128 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 675 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 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| 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 | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
