2009 Lexus SC vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Lexus SC is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus SC (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus SC weights approximately 519 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus SC 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 SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 SC (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus SC | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | SC | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 76 L |
