2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (73 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 436 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
