2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 323 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 556 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 560 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
