2008 Nissan Altima vs. 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight

To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight weights approximately 286 kg more than 2008 Nissan Altima.

Because 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. (279 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Nissan Altima 1984 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight
Make Nissan Oldsmobile
Model Altima Ninety-Eight
Year Released 2008 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3490 cc 4129 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 270 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 279 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1469 kg 1755 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 5610 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1960 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 3030 mm