1975 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2001 Nissan Altima is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Nissan Altima (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Altima weights approximately 7 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1975 BMW 520 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 1975 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Nissan Altima (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2001 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520. 2001 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 1975 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1975 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1975 BMW 520 2001 Nissan Altima
Make BMW Nissan
Model 520 Altima
Year Released 1975 2001
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 2389 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 123 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 172 Nm 213 Nm
Torque RPM 4350 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 1302 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 80 L