1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Maxima. (261 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 685 kg more than 2005 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2830 mm |
