1996 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 13 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (156 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 249 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (162 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2009 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 156 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
