1997 Lexus GS vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus GS 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 42 more horse power than 1997 Lexus GS. (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus GS weights approximately 307 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Because 1997 Lexus GS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus GS. (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus GS. 1997 Lexus GS 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. 1997 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus GS | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | GS | Altima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2810 mm |
