2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
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, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2830 mm |
