1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1986 Nissan Santana

To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 699 kg more than 1986 Nissan Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Nissan Santana, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Santana. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Santana. 1986 Nissan Santana has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Nissan Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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