2008 Jaguar X-Type vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Jaguar X-Type is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Jaguar X-Type. (153 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Jaguar X-Type. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 185 kg more than 2008 Jaguar X-Type. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar X-Type, 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, 2008 Jaguar X-Type (366 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar X-Type will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jaguar X-Type | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X-Type | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
