1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 315 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1980 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Nissan Patrol 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Patrol |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2980 mm |
