2012 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 823 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Traverse | Altima |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2113 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5207 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1991 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1849 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 73 L |
