2002 Nissan Altima vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP) has 194 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 380 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 40 L |
