1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 372 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 605 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 653 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Nissan Maxima 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Nissan Mercedes-Benz
Model Maxima SL
Year Released 1997 2010
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 5512 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 510 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 177 Nm 830 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 1900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1345 kg 1950 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2570 mm


 

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