Nissan is the latest automaker to exploit the enticing potential of turning heads and profits at a single stroke, spinning a slick coupe variant from its new-for-2007 Altima sedan and offering it in 2.5 S and 3.5 SE trims.This front-drive coupe was styled in Japan in hopes of attracting young and young-thinking buyers who demand transport with more personality if less practicality than the family-oriented Altima four-door.

Aside from its aluminum hood, the Coupe shares no body panels with the Sedan, instead culling numerous visual cues from the 350Z and Infiniti G37. It maintains-and marginally enhances-the outstanding structural qualities of the basic D-platform architecture that underpins all Altimas.

While overall width remains 70.7 inches, the wheelbase was trimmed from 109.3 to 105.3 inches, and the overhangs were shortened, dropping the car's length from 189.8 to 182.5 inches.
Reinforcing its redrawn proportions and edgier lines, the Coupe also boasts a faster windshield rake, a 2.5-inch-lower roof height, and a more Z-like side-glass treatment.

2008 Nissan Altima Coupe Features
BASE PRICE                                   $21,115-$25,390
VEHICLE LAYOUT                          Front engine, FWD, 5-pass, 2-door coupe
ENGINES                                         2.5L/170-175-hp/175-180-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4; 3.5L/270-hp/258-lb-                                                           ft DOH  24-valve V-6
TRANSMISSIONS                           6-speed manual; continuously variable auto
CURB WEIGHT                               3100-3300 lb (mfr)
WHEELBASE                                  105.3 in
LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT        182.5 x 70.7 x 55.5 in
0-60 mph                                          6.4-6.5 sec (MT est)
EPA CITY/HWY FUEL ECON        19/26-27 mpg
ON SALE IN U.S.                             Currently