2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 658 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | S | Altima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3722 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1077 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |