1952 Jaguar XK vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 335 more horse power than 1952 Jaguar XK. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1952 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 765 kg more than 1952 Jaguar XK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Jaguar XK. (290 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Jaguar XK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Jaguar XK | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK | S |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3090 mm |
