2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 359 kg more than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | E | Altima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
