1972 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 242 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | 3 | Altima |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |