1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (251 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 427 kg more than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (338 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
