1996 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2006 Nissan Altima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Altima (260 HP) has 186 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Altima weights approximately 389 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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, 2006 Nissan Altima (339 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2006 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
