2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,490 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 71 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | SLK | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
