2006 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,194 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Jaguar XK8 (294 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 614 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Jaguar XK8 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 2006 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2006 Jaguar XK8 (411 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Jaguar XK8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK8 | A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4194 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 294 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2430 mm |
