2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Nissan Santana

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 881 kg more than 1985 Nissan Santana. 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, 1985 Nissan Santana, 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 (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 578 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Santana. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Santana. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1985 Nissan Santana has manual transmission. 1985 Nissan Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 1985 Nissan Santana
Make Mercedes-Benz Nissan
Model SL Santana
Year Released 2008 1985
Engine Size 5439 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 510 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 720 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1955 kg 1074 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2560 mm