1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Nissan Terrano
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Terrano. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Terrano 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 169 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Terrano. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Terrano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 14 kg more than 1989 Nissan Terrano. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan Terrano 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, 1989 Nissan Terrano 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 (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Terrano. (245 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Terrano.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Nissan Terrano | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Terrano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
