2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Nissan Versa
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 Versa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Versa would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Versa. (123 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 425 kg more than 2008 Nissan Versa. 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 Versa, 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Versa. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Versa. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Versa has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Versa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Versa |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
