1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Elantra 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 117 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 182 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 1996 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2002 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2002 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Elantra | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2810 mm |
