2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Nissan Frontier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Frontier would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Frontier. (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Frontier.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 2009 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Frontier. (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Frontier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3953 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1796 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 15.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
