2002 Nissan Altima vs. 1979 Nissan Cedric
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan Cedric. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan Cedric 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1979 Nissan Cedric. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan Cedric. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 65 kg more than 1979 Nissan Cedric. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan Cedric 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 1979 Nissan Cedric. 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 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Nissan Cedric. (147 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Nissan Cedric.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 1979 Nissan Cedric | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Altima | Cedric |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2700 mm |
