2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 265 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Altima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1555 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
