2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Nissan Sunny
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Sunny would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Sunny is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Sunny. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Nissan Sunny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Sunny, 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 SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Sunny. (132 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Sunny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1996 Nissan Sunny | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SLK | Sunny |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1530 mm |
