2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Nissan Primera
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Primera would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Primera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (154 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Primera. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Primera weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Primera, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (231 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Primera. (177 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Primera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Primera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
