1986 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 126 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 1986 BMW M3 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 1986 BMW M3. 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 (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1986 BMW M3 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | M3 | Altima |
Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |