2008 Nissan Xterra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Xterra. (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 491 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Xterra. (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Xterra. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Xterra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xterra | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 1914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
