1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 11 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 179 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, 2009 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | 318 | Altima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1469 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |