1991 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX (279 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 187 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1991 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1991 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Nissan 300 ZX | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | 300 ZX | Altima |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2675 mm |
