2004 Nissan Maxima vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Nissan Maxima (347 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Maxima | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxima | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
