1996 Nissan Primera vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Primera would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Primera. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 266 kg more than 1996 Nissan Primera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Primera, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Primera. (177 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Primera. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Primera has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Primera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Primera | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Primera | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2760 mm |
