1978 Nissan Cedric vs. 2011 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cedric. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cedric would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cedric. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cedric. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 48 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cedric. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Nissan Cedric 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 Nissan Cedric. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Cedric. (147 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Cedric.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Nissan Cedric 2011 Nissan Altima
Make Nissan Nissan
Model Cedric Altima
Year Released 1978 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1982 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 147 Nm 244 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1350 kg 1398 kg
Vehicle Length 4700 mm 4595 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1796 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2675 mm