2005 Jaguar XK vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Jaguar XK is newer by 7 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Jaguar XK (390 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Jaguar XK weights approximately 23 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Jaguar XK (541 Nm) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2005 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Jaguar XK | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1833 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
