1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 10 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Altima. (270 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Altima.
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, 2008 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 (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Altima 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 | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | SL | Altima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |