2002 Lexus IS vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 42 kg more than 2002 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Altima. (181 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Altima. 2009 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 2002 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2002 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lexus IS | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Lexus | Nissan |
Model | IS | Altima |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2501 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 195 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1442 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |