1981 Pontiac Grand Safari vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 226 kg more than 2011 Nissan Altima.
Because 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari 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 Pontiac Grand Safari. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Pontiac | Nissan |
| Model | Grand Safari | Altima |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5450 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2776 mm |
