1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 215 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SLK | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
