2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,950 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 12 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Altima. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2950 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
