2001 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 8 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 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 128 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
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, 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 318 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
