2011 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 280 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |
