1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2008 Nissan Frontier is newer by 12 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Frontier. (261 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Frontier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 605 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Frontier. (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Frontier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
