2009 Nissan Altima vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla 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 162 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 251 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (146 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Altima | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
