2002 Nissan Altima vs. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 89 more horse power than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 115 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2002 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2002 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Nissan | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Altima | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2740 mm |
