2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 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 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 790 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima. 2002 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SLK | Altima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2205 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
