Nissan Altima L31
The cure for the common sedan that revitalised Nissan's American fortunes.
- Power
- 175 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.6 s
- Top speed
- 109 mph
- Est. value
- $1k–$4k
About the Nissan Altima L31
The third-generation Altima (L31) was a pivotal car for Nissan, moving the nameplate from a compact alternative to a serious mid-size contender. Built on the new FF-L platform, it was significantly larger and more aggressive than its predecessor, famously marketed as 'The Cure for the Common Sedan.' The 2.5-litre QR25DE engine provided class-leading four-cylinder power at launch, though early models were later noted for oil consumption and catalytic converter issues. It was the first Japanese-branded car to win the North American Car of the Year award in 2002.
Nissan Altima L31 specs
The Nissan Altima L31 produces 175 bhp (130 kW) and 244 Nm (180 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.6 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h).
| Make | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Model | Altima |
| Generation | L31 |
| Trim | 2.5 |
| Years | 2001–2006 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $17,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.5-litre DOHC 16-valve inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,488 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 175 bhp (130 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 244 Nm (180 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.6 s |
| Top speed | 109 mph (175 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,353 kg (2,983 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 129 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Nissan Altima L31 worth?
A typical Nissan Altima L31 is estimated to be worth $1,000 – $3,500 (about £746 – £2,600).
Its original price when new was about $17,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Nissan Altima L31 rarity in CarSpot
The Nissan Altima L31 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Nissan Altima L31 fun facts
- The 2002 Altima was the first non-domestic car to win the prestigious North American Car of the Year award.
- Its interior design was inspired by Audi, offering three distinct 'atmospheres' named Charcoal, Blond, and Frost.
- The L31 generation was so large that it actually had more interior volume than Nissan's flagship Maxima of the same era.
