2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 380 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Jetta | A |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4644 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
