1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier

To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.

Because 2011 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2011 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Mercedes-Benz SL 2011 Nissan Frontier
Make Mercedes-Benz Nissan
Model SL Frontier
Year Released 1990 2011
Body Type Convertible Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 3952 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 228 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 267 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 16.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5580 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1880 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 3200 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 80 L