2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 12 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2480 mm |
