1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Nissan Terrano
To start off, 2008 Nissan Terrano is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Terrano. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Terrano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Terrano weights approximately 60 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Nissan Terrano (278 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Terrano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Nissan Terrano | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Terrano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |
