1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 553 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Altima. (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 450 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 76 L |
