2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (220 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 419 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
