2006 Ford Fusion vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 3 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fusion (221 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 425 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, 2006 Ford Fusion (278 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fusion | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fusion | Altima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 73 L |
