2002 Mazda 2 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 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (78 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 58 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 2 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
