1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 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 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 705 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 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 589 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 1998 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | SL | Maxima |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7291 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 518 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 766 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |