1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 376 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 500 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 73 L |
