1959 Jaguar XK vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,781 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Jaguar XK weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.

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, 1959 Jaguar XK (325 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1959 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1959 Jaguar XK has manual transmission. 1959 Jaguar XK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Jaguar XK 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Jaguar Mercedes-Benz
Model XK SLK
Year Released 1959 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3781 cc 1795 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 220 HP 0 HP
Torque 325 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.1 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 106 mm 78.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1390 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1780 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2440 mm