2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Maxima. (276 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 267 kg more than 2005 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
