VS
At a Glance
Power
496hp @ 5500
158hp @ 5500
Torque
516lb-ft @ 2000
184lb-ft @ 1750
Engine
4.0 L/243cc
1.5 L/91cc
Choosing between the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Volkswagen Jetta is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class delivers 496hp @ 5500 while the Volkswagen Jetta produces 158hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $119,550 for the S-Class and $23,995 for the Jetta. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
496hp @ 5500
158hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
516lb-ft @ 2000
184lb-ft @ 1750
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
4.0 L/243cc
1.5 L/91cc
Cylinders
8
4
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic w/OD
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
16mpg
29mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27mpg
40mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
20gal
13.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
215.3in
186.5in
Width (in)
75.6in
70.8in
Height (in)
59.4in
57.7in
Wheelbase (in)
133.7in
105.7in
Curb Weight (lbs)
5137lbs
2998lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
—
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
—
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Volkswagen Jetta
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Jetta
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Volkswagen Jetta
Lower starting price ($23,995)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the S-Class or Jetta?
The S-Class produces 496hp @ 5500 and 516lb-ft @ 2000 of torque while the Jetta delivers 158hp @ 5500 and 184lb-ft @ 1750 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the S-Class and Jetta?
The S-Class starts from $119,550 and the Jetta from $23,995. The Jetta is cheaper by $95,555 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the S-Class or the Jetta?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider