1988 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Altima. (159 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Altima. (220 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
