2009 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (159 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Honda Civic. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Civic.
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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Honda | Nissan |
| Model | Civic | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
