1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2006 Nissan Altima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2006 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Altima weights approximately 929 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2006 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 2322 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |
