1996 BMW 325 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 30 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 325 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 1996 BMW 325. 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 (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 325 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
