2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (261 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | CLS | Maxima |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5461 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 382 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 531 Nm | 346 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2830 mm |