2003 Nissan Altima vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Matrix. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
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, 2003 Nissan Altima (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Matrix. (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Matrix. 2009 Toyota Matrix 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. 2009 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Altima | 2009 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Altima | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 50 L |
