2002 Ford Taurus vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2002 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Taurus weights approximately 79 kg more than 2011 Nissan Altima.
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, both vehicles can yield 244 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Taurus | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Taurus | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2933 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 76 L |
