1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 48 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | E | Altima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
