2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (475 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (252 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (334 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | CLS | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 475 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2760 mm |
