The Nissan Altima did not change for the 1997 model year. Later in the year, Nissan offered a 1997 1/2 model that included side-impact door beams to meet federal regulations. A new Altima was on tap for 1998.

The 1997 and 1997 1/2 Altima came in four trim levels: the base XE, the midrange GXE, the sporty SE, and the luxurious GLE. All Altimas in the lineup shared a 2.4 liter, 150 horsepower four cylinder engine. Fuel economy is 21/29 mpg.

Drivers like the 1997 Nissan Altima because it is a good value, gets good gas mileage, and is extremely reliable. Some drivers find that it can be cramped for larger drivers and passengers, and others have had problems with the paint chipping.