2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 780 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (151 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Stanza |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 384 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
