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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 22 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Altima. (181 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
