2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Nissan 350Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan 350Z. (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan 350Z. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 350Z | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
