1995 BMW 317 vs. 2008 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Sentra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 1190 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2008 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2008 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 317 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
