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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
