2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (116 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 592 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Jetta |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1313 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |