1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 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 79 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 14 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
