2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 5,980 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (604 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 357 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 S (1,000 Nm @ 200 RPM) has 662 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2002 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 3505 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 73 L |
