2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 82 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
