1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2011 Nissan Maxima. (291 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2011 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 47 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Maxima. (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 76 L |
