2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Maxima is newer by 6 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 138 kg more than 2010 Nissan Maxima.
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, 2010 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 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
