1978 Dodge Aspen vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Altima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1978 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Dodge Aspen weights approximately 175 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Because 1978 Dodge Aspen 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 1978 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 231 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:
| 1978 Dodge Aspen | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Aspen | Altima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2810 mm |
