1997 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 152 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (150 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota Corolla | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Toyota | Nissan |
| Model | Corolla | Altima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1760 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2675 mm |
