2001 Hyundai Matrix vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Matrix would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 6 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. (183 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. 2002 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 2001 Hyundai Matrix has manual transmission. 2001 Hyundai Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Matrix | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Hyundai | Nissan |
| Model | Matrix | Altima |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
