2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 461 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 141 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 40 L |
