2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 463 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 480 kg more than 2003 Nissan Xterra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 (1,001 Nm) has 792 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
