2005 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 20 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 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (109 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1564 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 G (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz G 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model G Jetta
Year Released 2005 1985
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3994 cc 1779 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 247 HP 109 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 560 Nm 156 Nm
Torque RPM 1700 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 19.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 180 km/hour 188 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2490 kg 926 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1940 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2480 mm