1988 Ford Fairlane vs. 2008 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fairlane. (138 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 161 kg more than 2008 Nissan Altima.

Because 1988 Ford Fairlane 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 1988 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fairlane. (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fairlane.

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