2008 Nissan Altima vs. 2002 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RL (225 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Altima. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura RL weights approximately 539 kg more than 2008 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, 2002 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm). This means 2002 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima. 2002 Acura RL 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. 2002 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Altima | 2002 Acura RL | |
| Make | Nissan | Acura |
| Model | Altima | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 50 L |
