2009 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (518 HP) has 459 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 501 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.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CL | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 40 L |
