1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Nissan Almera

To start off, 1999 Nissan Almera is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 1999 Nissan Almera. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan Almera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1999 Nissan Almera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Almera, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 464 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Almera. (116 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Almera. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Nissan Almera has manual transmission. 1999 Nissan Almera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 1999 Nissan Almera
Make Mercedes-Benz Nissan
Model SL Almera
Year Released 1996 1999
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5956 cc 1392 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 375 HP 86 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 580 Nm 116 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2050 kg 1045 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4130 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2540 mm