1998 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 15 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. 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 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 318 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
