Difficult to decide Camry or Altima? - Here is my exper and how

I just bought 2009 Nissan Altima 2.5S yesterday and would like to share the experience with anyone who has difficulty to choose from and how to get a great deal.

I had compared Altima (4 cyclinder) with Camry (4 cycl) before I decided to buy Altima. Camry LE Auto Tran and Altima 2.5S CVT have almost the same size, similiar reliability (see Consumer's Report) and price. It was tough call until I test drived both cars. The Altima engine is 177HP while Camry is only 158HP. Camry is a little too soft to drive comparing to Altima, ie, it reacts a lot slower than Altima when you push gas or brake. Other than the power difference in the engines, Toyota targets the market of 45+ old consumers while Nissan targets the sector of young drivers. Toyota tries to make cars move more smoothly than other Jap manufactories.

Surprise to me is the mileage for Altima is better than Camry, 23 vs 21 in city, 32 vs 31 in highway.

Camry is re-designed with stylish shape much better than old versions to attract young drivers. But comparing to Altima, it is still way behind, particular its front emblem likes a ugly nose. Unlike Camry, you won't feel out of style to drive Altima five years later.

Peopel may think Camry is one of the most reliable sedan. Not any more. according to Comsumer's Report, its rating is just above average in the same level as Altima, but much lower than Honda Accord.

Both cars are listed around MRP $22,500 and have $1500 rebate expires on Jan. 5. I bargained Camry down to $18,500 before tax, title and license fee. Once I had decided to buy Altima, I negotiated the out-the-door price(OTD, it is the final price including everything, tax, title and etc.) down to $20,700 for an Altima with MRP $22,710.

I drove the Altima a couple of times today and felt the handling is much better than Camry.

Although I like Camry a lot and still keep an 11 year-old one at home, I have to say I like Altima a lot more now.