2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 72 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | E | 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 | 268 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
