Standout Trims
1997 HIGHLIGHTS
Full History Report
Buying a 1997 Nissan Altima?
3 recalls have been issued for this model year. Check its history before you buy.
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Trim Levels
ALL 1997 NISSAN ALTIMA TRIMS
| Trim | Body | Engine | MPG | HP | Seats | MSRP | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SETop Rated | Sedan | 2.4L | 24 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™70.3 | |
| GXE | Sedan | 2.4L | 24 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™70.3 | |
| XE | Sedan | 2.4L | 24 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™70.3 | |
| XE (1997.5) | Sedan | 2.4L | 24 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™69.7 | |
| SE (1997.5) | Sedan | 2.4L | 24 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™69.7 | |
| GXE (1997.5) | Sedan | 2.4L | 24 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™69.6 | |
| GLE | Sedan | 2.4L | 21 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™69.6 | |
| GLE (1997.5) | Sedan | 2.4L | 21 | 150 | N/A | N/A | MyCar Score™68.8 |
At a Glance
KEY SPECS
Body Type
Sedan
MPG Range
21–24 MPG
HP Range
150 HP
Fuel Type
regular unleaded
Drive Type
front wheel drive
Towing
1,000 lbs
Dimensions & Comfort
SPACE & COMFORT
Based on the top-rated 1997 Altima trim.
Exterior Dimensions
Length
180.5 in
Width
67.1 in
Height
55.9 in
Wheelbase
103.1 in
Interior Dimensions
Front Headroom
39.3 in
Front Legroom
42.6 in
Rear Headroom
37.6 in
Rear Legroom
34.7 in
Cargo & Capacity
Cargo Space
14 cu ft
Towing
1,000 lbs
Safety & Warranty
PROTECTION & COVERAGE
Safety Ratings
1997 Nissan Altima 4-DR.
NHTSA Overall
Not tested by NHTSAFrontal Crash
Not tested by NHTSASide Crash
Not tested by NHTSASide Pole
Not tested by NHTSARollover
Not tested by NHTSAOpen Recalls
3 recalls
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. nhtsa.gov/ratings
Family & Safety
IS THIS A GOOD FAMILY CAR?
Rear Seat Space
Rear headroom: 37.6″
Rear legroom: 34.7″
Car Seat Usability
Always have car seat installation checked by a certified technician. Find an inspection station near you →
LATCH System
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is required on all US vehicles from 2003 onward.
Check owner's manual for LATCH anchor availability.
Cargo & Stroller Space
14 cu ft
Fits most compact strollers
Common Questions
1997 NISSAN ALTIMA FAQ
How many recalls does a 1997 Nissan Altima have?▾
The 1997 Nissan Altima has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Always verify current recall status at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.
What is the fuel economy of a 1997 Nissan Altima?▾
The 1997 Nissan Altima gets 21–24 MPG combined depending on trim level and drivetrain configuration.
What is the best 1997 Nissan Altima trim to buy used?▾
Based on MyCar Score™ ratings, the SE trim scores highest at 70.3 out of 100, balancing value, fuel economy, and specifications.
Is the 1997 Nissan Altima a good used car?▾
The 1997 Nissan Altima has an average MyCar Score™ of 70 out of 100. MyCar Score™ weighs NHTSA safety ratings, recall history, fuel economy, and value. This is a competitive score for the segment.
Other Altima Years
Other Nissan Models