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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 144 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 580 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 170 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 | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
