2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1999 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 90 kg more than 1999 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Maxima. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1999 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1999 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1999 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SLK | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
