2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 409 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (252 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 666 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (334 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 661 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
