1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 400 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 420 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2700 mm |
