1997 Jaguar XK8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jaguar XK8 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (247 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jaguar XK8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK8 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2890 mm |
