1971 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Altima is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 180 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
