1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Altima. (250 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 166 kg more than 2005 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (338 Nm). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Altima |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2810 mm |
