1997 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Nissan Altima (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2003 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 318 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 73 L |
