1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2013 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxima | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4591 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2008 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1444 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
