2009 Jaguar XJ vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Jaguar XJ is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,194 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jaguar XJ (391 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Jaguar XJ.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar XJ, 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, 2009 Jaguar XJ (541 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Jaguar XJ | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XJ | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4194 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 391 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.3 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
