2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz A 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 132 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 347 kg more than 2002 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |
