2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 20 kg more than 2003 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (509 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Maxima | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxima | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 509 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2431 mm |
