2002 Lexus SC vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,298 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (312 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus SC 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 SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 SC (447 Nm) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima. 2002 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus SC | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | SC | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4298 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 312 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |
