2009 Nissan Altima vs. 2003 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 2,487 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 104 kg more than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Vibe will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 2003 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Altima | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2487 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
