1997 Mazda MPV vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MPV. (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MPV weights approximately 324 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Because 1997 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MPV. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MPV | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MPV | Altima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2954 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2675 mm |
