1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 343 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 642 kg more than 2005 Nissan Altima. 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, 2005 Nissan Altima, 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) has 529 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (237 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Altima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 766 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
