1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Jaguar S-Type
To start off, 2004 Jaguar S-Type is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Jaguar S-Type is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Jaguar S-Type (235 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Jaguar S-Type should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 137 kg more than 2004 Jaguar S-Type.
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, 2004 Jaguar S-Type (293 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Jaguar S-Type will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Jaguar S-Type | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Jaguar |
| Model | SL | S-Type |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 293 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1673 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
