2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 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, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (109 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 374 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
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 (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2480 mm |
