The Good
The 1993 Nissan Altima offered a compelling blend of advantages. Practically, it was reliable and fuel-efficient. Emotionally, its responsive handling provided a fun driving experience. Comfortable seating and a well-designed interior added to its appeal. Overall, it presented a strong value proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and enjoyable sedan.
The Bad
While generally reliable, the 1993 Nissan Altima had some weaknesses. Rust could be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission and the air conditioning system. Checking for worn suspension components is also advisable due to the car's age. Regular maintenance records are crucial.
1993 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Primarily offered with a 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4 engine (KA24DE).
- Horsepower: Approximately 150 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated at around 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: Roughly 8.5-9.0 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not generally recommended or equipped for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Included standard features such as cloth upholstery, basic audio system, and manual windows and locks.
- XE: Added features like upgraded cloth, power mirrors.
- GXE: Featured power windows and door locks, upgraded audio system, and possibly alloy wheels.
- SE: Sport-oriented trim with sport seats, alloy wheels, fog lights, and potentially a rear spoiler. Offered firmer suspension for enhanced handling.
- GLE: Luxury-oriented trim with leather upholstery, automatic climate control, upgraded audio, and additional convenience features. Often included keyless entry and security systems.
Generally, all trims featured front-wheel drive and were available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Safety features were relatively basic for the time, usually including seatbelts and driver-side airbag. Higher trims provided enhanced comfort and convenience items making them more desirable in the used market. The SE trim appealed to those seeking a more engaging driving experience, while the GLE catered to buyers prioritizing comfort and luxury.
1993 Nissan Altima Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1993 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | Altima |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | AGUASCALIENTES CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.4 L 4-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1993 Nissan Altima Have?
Long-term reliability concerns generally revolved around wear and tear items common to vehicles of this age, such as suspension components (struts, bushings) and engine seals, which could lead to leaks. The KA24DE engine was generally robust but could develop timing chain noise over time if maintenance was neglected.
Recalls for the 1993 Altima were relatively limited. Any recalls would typically be related to safety issues like seatbelt malfunctions or potential problems with the fuel system. It's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to verify if any outstanding recalls apply. Due to the age of the vehicle, addressing any identified recalls is crucial for safe operation.
How long will the 1993 Nissan Altima last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in tech included an AM/FM radio, and some trims offered a cassette player. Higher trims might have featured a CD player, power antenna, and upgraded speaker systems. No driver-assistance features were available.
Safety features were limited to seatbelts and a driver-side airbag; ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional on some trims.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS are difficult to find specifically for the 1993 model year. Generally, vehicles of this era lacked the advanced safety technology found in modern cars, meaning impact protection was less comprehensive. While not technologically advanced by modern standards, the Altima offered a functional and reasonably comfortable driving experience for its time, with available upgrades in higher trims to enhance the overall user experience.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
1993 Nissan Altima Prices and Market Value
1993 Nissan Altima Cost of Ownership
1993 Nissan Altima Fuel Efficiency
1993 Nissan Altima Safety Rating
NHTSA
1993 Nissan Altima Recalls & Defects
Vehicle Speed Control
Exterior Lighting
Suspension
1993 Nissan Altima Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1993 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of features, the Altima offered a competitive set of amenities for its time, though the Accord and Camry often had more advanced options available on higher trims. The Taurus offered a larger interior and more passenger space.
Regarding price, the Altima was generally competitive with its rivals. Reliability was a strong selling point for the Camry, while the Accord and 626 offered a more sporting driving feel. The Taurus provided more interior space.
Alternatives to the 1993 Altima would include the Honda Accord, known for its reliability and balanced performance, and the Toyota Camry, highly regarded for its longevity and low running costs. The Mazda 626 offered a similar driving experience to the Altima with comparable features and pricing.
Ranks #1329 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1329 | 1993 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 1993 Nissan Altima a Good Sedan?
louie wingy on February 9, 2023
it made me crash and i almost died and i got suedTHIS CAR MADE ME CRASHHHH IT WENT OUT OF CONTROL AND CRASHED INTO A WING SHOP!!! I GOT SUED. DO NOT BUY THIS CARRR Stay safe
Jason1972 on January 15, 2020
Still running well 27 years later @225,000 milesI’m the third owner, bought from a Colorado Springs, Colorado dealership in Aug 2015 with 126,000 miles. Had a random misfire so I got it for cheap. Diagnosed and found it was a bad injector. Five years later and 100,000 miles added , I’ve only replaced the alternator, struts and ac compressor. It has been the most reliable vehicle I’ve owned since getting my license at the age of 16 in 1988 . I worked in the oil industry in North Dakota for two years and this car always started right up in the brutal winters up there , without a block heater ! With good Michelin tires, it did quite well in the snow too. Fast forward to January 2020, it is still my reliable commuter car in San Antonio, Texas. I replaced the 5 year battery last month because It finally died. Replaced the aging valve cover gasket too. It made a 700 mile round trip recently without any issues whatsoever and averaged 28 MPG . What can I say? This old Nissan continues to run strong and it has exceeded my expectations for being an older car !
Jason1972 on August 25, 2017
Keep oil changed and it will run forever !I love my first gen Altima ! Bought it Aug 2015 . Have since put 50,000 miles on it which it now has 177,516 on the odometer . I've only replaced the alternator and one fuel injector because of a misfire. Overall, this vehicle has been very dependable and still continues to run well. I commute to and from Colorado to North Dakota every two weeks. It's never let me down despite the alternator going out while at home . Mine has the 5 speed and I change the oil every 3000 miles , conventional 5W30 Castrol.
Asus3308 on August 11, 2013
Orig gem 93 stanzaALTIMAOverall car has been very reliable for past 20+ years with 248000+ miles on car everything engine and tranny is original, p/windows auto door locks, power antenna, a/c, radio, automatic seat belts. In short never had any issues, always changed oil every 2000 miles, and regular up keep, parents and brother and I took many trips to Canada, The only neg- thing about car does not run on E-10 gas runs well on pure gasoline, interstate gas mileage I have gotten 45 mpg with a average of 38 mpgs, my city range is 22-29.
93 Altima Lover on July 25, 2011
An Amazing Vehicle!I love this car! The styling is classic and far beyond its years; engine purrs like a kitten even at 230,000 miles; fantastic gas mileage; reliable beyond belief. One helluva sweet machine. Mine was a 5-speed and I enjoyed her every minute she faithfully hauled me around--and that included about 5 round trips on the Alaska hwy. where you REALLY need to be able to trust your vehicle, especially when a lone woman traveler as I was. If Nissan did a complete remake of this year and model, I'd snatch one up in an instant. If you consider yourself a driver, consider buying Nissan!
Altima Enthusiast on August 31, 2009
Amazing and graceful car.1993 Nissan stanza Altima, this car has 224000 miles on her, but stalls on the Ethanol fuel now with the 10% ethanol in gas. and been rear ended, now all fixed like new only thing she needed was a trunk lid, car is amazing runs great by the grace of God, and still does 40 mpgs highway for her age is good. Only thing a would ask is if the government can bring back regular non-ethanol gasoline to the market so I can enjoy my car for another 224000 miles. overall the car is very good.
Alx on March 14, 2007
Old ReliableDrove it like I stole it and it still runs. After all the abuse I'm still confident that my car will take me anywhere and back. If you get the chance to buy one with low miles go for it you won't regret it.
Your regular old joe on December 18, 2006
Dependable Car!Is very fun to drive. Was worth every penny. Gets me from point A to point B. Have yet to find such a good car all around. Has plenty of life still left in it!
altimadrag 9.0 on August 26, 2006
haveits a great car it is amazing with a turbo t4 haha jp but if i had a turbo t4 i would have to say on a altima it would be about 700 whp
altimadrag10.0 on August 26, 2006
i have this carit's amazing it was fireing only on 2 cylinders and one of the fule injectors was pluged "still ran" lol it is also nice with neon's and a turbo in it!!!!!!!!!
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma