2009 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 488 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Jetta | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
