1991 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 97 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. 2009 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2776 mm |
