2011 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 44 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Jetta | SLK |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4557 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1781 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1504 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
