2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (222 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima 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 168 kg more than 2011 Nissan Altima.
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, 2011 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Altima. (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Altima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
