2008 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 624 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 S (631 Nm) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. (279 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6207 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
