2012 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander (230 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 349 kg more than 2002 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 Mitsubishi Outlander (291 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Nissan |
| Model | Outlander | Altima |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4666 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1801 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
