2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Altima. (260 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 348 kg more than 2005 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (392 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (334 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | CLS | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 392 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
