2002 Nissan Sentra vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Sentra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 123 kg more than 2002 Nissan Sentra. 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, 2002 Nissan Sentra (245 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (237 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Sentra | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Sentra | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 76 L |
