2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 18 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (300 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Altima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
