2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,487 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 309 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (220 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Altima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |
