2002 Saturn SC vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saturn SC would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2002 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 328 kg more than 2002 Saturn SC. 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn SC. (154 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Saturn SC | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Saturn | Nissan |
| Model | SC | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
