2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 768 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan 350Z. (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan 350Z. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | SL | 350Z |
Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1112 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |