2010 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SL | Altima |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4582 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1298 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
