1983 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (260 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 497 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (334 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 316 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
