2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 Acura TL
To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 10 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TL weights approximately 394 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.
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, 2012 Acura TL (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima. 2012 Acura TL 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. 2012 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Nissan Altima | 2012 Acura TL | |
Make | Nissan | Acura |
Model | Altima | TL |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2488 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 344 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4928 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2776 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |