1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 vs. 2004 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Maxima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 31 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (347 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 | 2004 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 260 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2830 mm |
