2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 274 kg more than 2011 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1880 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 76 L |
