1989 Ford Sierra vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Sierra 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 196 more horse power than 1989 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 431 kg more than 1989 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford Sierra 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 1989 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Sierra. (123 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Sierra | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Sierra | Altima |
Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 123 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1446 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |