2009 Nissan Altima vs. 2008 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Micra 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 183 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 37 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. 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 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 2008 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Altima | Micra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1386 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 46 L |
