2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 112 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (270 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1318 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | SL | Altima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5461 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 382 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |