2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Nissan Terrano
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Terrano. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Terrano would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Terrano. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Terrano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 195 kg more than 1989 Nissan Terrano. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan Terrano is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Terrano will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Terrano. (245 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Terrano. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Nissan Terrano has manual transmission. 1989 Nissan Terrano will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Nissan Terrano | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Terrano |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
