2001 BMW 320 vs. 2004 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,505 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2004 Nissan Altima.

Because 2001 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 320. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 320 2004 Nissan Altima
Make BMW Nissan
Model 320 Altima
Year Released 2001 2004
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 2505 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 244 Nm
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 100 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1656 kg 1361 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2830 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 9.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 76 L