2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 405 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Jetta |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1897 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 494 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
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 | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |