2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 345 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
