1986 Honda Civic vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1986 Honda Civic. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 177 kg more than 1986 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Civic. (142 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Civic | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Honda | Nissan |
| Model | Civic | Altima |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2780 mm |
