2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (177 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Because 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2012 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Nissan Altima | 2012 BMW 120 | |
Make | Nissan | BMW |
Model | Altima | 120 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3505 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 177 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 51 L |