1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 654 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | E | Altima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |