1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 672 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Jetta |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 389 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 570 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |