The Nissan Altima, introduced for the 1993 model year, represented Nissan’s entry into the mid-size sedan segment, aiming to compete with established American and Japanese rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The first generation, designated the Altima I (chassis code L30), was a significant departure from the Stanza, the model it replaced in the North American market. Produced through 1997, the Altima I offered a more modern design and a focus on comfort and practicality. The 2.4i variant, equipped with the KA24DE engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a central position in the Altima lineup, offering a balance between affordability and performance. It was positioned above the base 2.0L model and below any potential higher-performance trims that were not offered in the US market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Altima |
| Generation | Altima I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4i (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 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 Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic 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 of Nissan’s lineup during the 1990s, known for its durability and relatively smooth operation. 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. Paired with the KA24DE was a four-speed automatic transmission, offering convenient shifting for everyday driving. This transmission was a conventional hydraulic automatic, lacking the more advanced electronic controls found in later models.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4i automatic Altima provided a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine delivered adequate power for merging onto highways and passing slower traffic. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t known for its quick shifts or aggressive downshifting. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in approximately 8.3 seconds, which was competitive for the class at the time, but noticeably slower than versions equipped with a manual transmission. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and smooth cruising, rather than outright performance. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively soft ride that absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road well.
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, often denoted by the “S” or “SE” designation, added features like alloy wheels, a sunroof, upgraded interior upholstery, and a more comprehensive sound system. Optional extras included a CD player, cruise control, and power door locks. Interior materials were generally durable and functional, with cloth upholstery being standard. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, prioritizing practicality over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Altima I utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. The 2.4i model typically featured ventilated disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear. Steering was rack-and-pinion, providing responsive and accurate handling. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling stability. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Altima 2.4i Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and reliable mid-size sedan. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish and that the engine lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to the base 2.0L model, the 2.4i offered a noticeable improvement in performance. Fuel economy was comparable to other mid-size sedans of the era, averaging around 32.7 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was a strong point for the Altima I, with the KA24DE engine proving to be particularly durable.
Legacy
The Nissan Altima I established the Altima as a credible competitor in the mid-size sedan segment. The KA24DE engine, in particular, gained a reputation for longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. Today, well-maintained examples of the Altima 2.4i are becoming increasingly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors. While not a high-performance vehicle, the 2.4i Automatic offers a comfortable and reliable driving experience, representing a solid and dependable choice for those seeking a classic 1990s sedan. Parts availability remains reasonably good, making it a viable option for those interested in restoring or maintaining one of these vehicles. The automatic transmission, while not the most exciting, is generally reliable if properly maintained with regular fluid changes.
