1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 239 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (237 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (178 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Focus | Altima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1169 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
