1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 245 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Laurel | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Laurel | Altima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
