2008 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2008 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jaguar XK8 (301 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 XK8 (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jaguar XK8 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK8 | SE |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2080 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 63 L |
