2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 337 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | CLS | Altima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |