2003 Nissan Altima vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 2003 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima. 1997 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Nissan Altima | 1997 Acura RL | |
Make | Nissan | Acura |
Model | Altima | RL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2488 cc | 3472 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 91 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1675 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2920 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 50 L |