1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 533 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | S | Altima |
Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1077 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |