1981 Ford Granada vs. 2012 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (112 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 237 kg more than 1981 Ford Granada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 1981 Ford Granada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Granada. (177 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Granada.

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