2009 Nissan Altima vs. 1971 Subaru R-2

To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 986 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 1971 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Nissan Altima 1971 Subaru R-2
Make Nissan Subaru
Model Altima R-2
Year Released 2009 1971
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 3490 cc 356 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 270 HP 27 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 40 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1446 kg 460 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 3000 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1300 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 1930 mm