2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Altima. (270 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 148 kg more than 2008 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | SL | Altima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 510 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 830 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1077 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |