1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 578 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z, 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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
