1999 Pontiac Salsa vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Salsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Salsa would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 312 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (349 Nm) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (203 Nm). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Salsa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Pontiac Salsa | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Pontiac | Nissan |
| Model | Salsa | Altima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1512 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2675 mm |
