1974 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Because 1974 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2810 mm |
