1996 Jaguar XK8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Jaguar XK8 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Jaguar XK8 (291 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 633 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Jaguar XK8 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 1996 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1996 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jaguar XK8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK8 | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 54 L |
