2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 245 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
