1994 Ford Tempo vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1994 Ford Tempo. (134 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 317 kg more than 1994 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Tempo. (203 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Tempo | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Tempo | Altima |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2675 mm |
