1986 Ford Sierra vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Ford Sierra. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 176 kg more than 1986 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Ford Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Sierra. (216 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Sierra | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Sierra | Altima |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 76 L |
