1998 Ford Focus vs. 2007 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2007 Nissan Altima is newer by 9 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Altima weights approximately 354 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, 2007 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 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 2007 Nissan Altima
Make Ford Nissan
Model Focus Altima
Year Released 1998 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1388 cc 3490 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 270 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.5 mm 81.4 mm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1115 kg 1469 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2780 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 76 L