2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 340 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2003 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Xterra 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SLK | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2660 mm |
