1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 153 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1417 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
