1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 395 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Jetta |
Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 54 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |