2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 15 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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, both vehicles can yield 460 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nitro | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2768 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
