2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 319 kg more than 2012 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 S (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Maxima. (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3222 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 76 L |
