Nissan Altima U13
The sporty alternative that redefined Nissan's mid-size presence.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.4 s
- Top speed
- 124 mph
- Est. value
- $500–$8k
About the Nissan Altima U13
Launched in 1992 as a 1993 model, the first-generation Altima (U13) replaced the aging Stanza and was based on the Japanese-market Bluebird SSS. Designed in California and built in Tennessee, it was specifically tailored for the American market to compete with the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. It stood out for its relatively high power output from the KA24DE engine—shared with the 240SX—and a chassis tuned for more driver engagement than its rivals. While technically a compact car by the standards of the time, its success laid the groundwork for the Altima to become one of the best-selling mid-size sedans in North America.
Nissan Altima U13 specs
The Nissan Altima U13 produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 209 Nm (154 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.4 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h).
| Make | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Model | Altima |
| Generation | U13 |
| Trim | 2.4 |
| Years | 1992–1997 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $13,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.4-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,389 cc (2.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 209 Nm (154 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.4 s |
| Top speed | 124 mph (200 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,294 kg (2,853 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 116 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 U13 worth?
A typical Nissan Altima U13 is estimated to be worth $500 – $7,800 (about £373 – £5,800).
Its original price when new was about $13,000.
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 U13 rarity in CarSpot
The Nissan Altima U13 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 8 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 U13 fun facts
- Early 1993 models featured a small 'Stanza' sticker on the trunk lid to help customers transition to the new Altima nameplate.
- The U13 Altima was one of the first affordable sedans to offer an optional head-up display (HUD), a high-tech feature for the early 90s.
- Its 2.4-litre KA24DE engine is a legendary Nissan powerplant, also used in the rear-wheel-drive 240SX sports car.