2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1155 kg more than 2003 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 GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | GL | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 73 L |
