1996 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA
To start off, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2013 Nissan ALTIMA. (266 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Nissan ALTIMA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 63 kg more than 2013 Nissan ALTIMA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (350 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2013 Nissan ALTIMA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2013 Nissan ALTIMA | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | ALTIMA |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4864 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2776 mm |
