2009 Lexus GS vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lexus GS would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (279 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (270 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 253 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus GS 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 2009 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2009 Lexus GS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus GS | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | GS | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 417 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 76 L |
