2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP) has 189 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1115 kg more than 1987 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 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 463 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Jetta |
Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 560 Nm | 97 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2480 mm |