1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2006 Nissan Maxima is newer by 8 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2006 Nissan Maxima. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan Maxima.
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, 2006 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan Maxima. (347 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
