2001 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Nissan Sentra

To start off, 2004 Nissan Sentra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Sentra. (126 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2004 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2001 BMW 318 (200 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Sentra. (175 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Sentra. 2004 Nissan Sentra has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Nissan Sentra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 318 2004 Nissan Sentra
Make BMW Nissan
Model 318 Sentra
Year Released 2001 2004
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1770 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 142 HP 126 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 175 Nm
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1470 kg 1140 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2540 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 50 L