1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. (242 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 873 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Nissan |
| Model | Challenger | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
