2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 44 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
