2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2480 mm |
