1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (287 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 weights approximately 585 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 2002 Nissan Altima
Make Mercedes-Benz Nissan
Model 400 Altima
Year Released 1991 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4196 cc 3505 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 287 HP 247 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 410 Nm 338 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 96 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.9 mm 81 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2000 kg 1415 kg
Vehicle Length 5110 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 3050 mm 2810 mm