2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,596 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 179 kg more than 2001 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2596 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1594 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2760 mm |
