2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4554 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
