2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xterra | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
