2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (192 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 14 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
