2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Altima. (260 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 538 kg more than 2005 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 466 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (334 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Altima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
