2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 9 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 152 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, 2011 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
