1987 Ford Tempo vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1987 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 449 kg more than 1987 Ford Tempo. 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 (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Tempo | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Tempo | Altima |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2680 mm |
