1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 432 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 316 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
