2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 142 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (181 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Altima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
