The Nissan Altima, introduced for the 1993 model year, represented Nissan’s entry into the mid-size sedan segment, aiming to compete with established rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The first generation, designated the Altima I (chassis code D22), was a significant departure from the Stanza, the model it effectively replaced in the North American market. Offered from 1993 through 1997, the Altima I was positioned as a more modern and refined alternative, emphasizing comfort and practicality. The 2.4i variant, powered by the KA24DE engine producing 150 horsepower, served as a core offering within the lineup, balancing affordability with acceptable performance. This model was primarily targeted at family buyers and commuters seeking a reliable and spacious sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Altima |
| Generation | Altima I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4i (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 4400 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | KA24DE |
| Engine displacement | 2388 cm3 (145.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1294 kg (2852.78 lbs.) |
| Length | 4585 mm (180.51 in.) |
| Width | 1704 mm (67.09 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1466 mm (57.72 in.) |
| Rear track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Altima 2.4i was the KA24DE, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a mainstay in Nissan’s lineup during the 1990s, known for its durability and relatively simple design. The KA24DE featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for improved efficiency and performance. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 216 Nm (159.31 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The standard transmission for this variant was a five-speed manual, although a four-speed automatic transmission was also available, albeit impacting acceleration slightly. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration were typical for vehicles in this class.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4i Altima with the five-speed manual offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.3 seconds, which was competitive for the time, but not particularly sporty. The engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, with a usable torque curve that made it easy to navigate city streets and merge onto highways. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, resulted in a noticeable decrease in responsiveness and slightly slower acceleration times. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces. Steering was light and precise, making the Altima easy to maneuver. Compared to the higher-trim Altima models equipped with the V6 engine, the 2.4i offered a more economical and practical driving experience, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Altima 2.4i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power steering, power windows, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels, such as the SE, added features like alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded interior upholstery. The interior was generally functional and well-built, with a focus on ergonomics. The base upholstery was cloth, with optional leather available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls. Optional extras included a CD player, cruise control, and power door locks.
Chassis & Braking
The Altima I utilized a front independent suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were typically drum brakes on the base models, with some higher trims receiving rear disc brakes. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The 205/65 R16 tires offered a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Altima 2.4i was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliable engine. However, some critics noted that the 2.4-liter engine lacked the power of the V6 options offered in competing models. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 2.4i achieving around 33.1 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the V6-powered Altima, the 2.4i was more affordable and fuel-efficient, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. In terms of reliability, the KA24DE engine proved to be exceptionally durable, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Legacy
The first-generation Nissan Altima, particularly the 2.4i variant, established the Altima as a credible contender in the mid-size sedan segment. The KA24DE engine’s reputation for reliability has ensured that these vehicles remain relatively common on the used car market today. While not known for its blistering performance, the 2.4i Altima offered a practical, comfortable, and dependable transportation solution for families and commuters. Its simple design and readily available parts make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain, contributing to its enduring appeal among enthusiasts and budget-minded buyers. The Altima I laid the foundation for the continued success of the Altima nameplate, which has become one of Nissan’s best-selling models.
