2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 625 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 462 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2002 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | SL | Altima |
Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3505 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 338 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 73 L |