2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan 350Z. (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan 350Z. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2006 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2006 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 350Z | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2143 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 66 L |
