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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Primera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Primera. (148 HP @ 6100 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1560 kg more than 1996 Nissan Primera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (241 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Primera. (181 Nm @ 4800 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 | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
