2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (261 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 80 kg more than 2003 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 361 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 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 | 1635 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2830 mm |
