2009 Nissan Altima vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,487 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Altima. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 281 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Toyota MR2 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 2002 Toyota MR2. 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 (220 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Altima | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2487 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 72 L |
