1995 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1995 BMW Z3. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 223 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW Z3. (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW Z3 | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |
