2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 39 kg more than 2011 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Maxima. (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | CLK | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2596 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
