1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | A | Altima |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1687 cc | 3505 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 338 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 73 L |