2002 Nissan Sentra vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Sentra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2002 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Sentra. (245 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Sentra. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2002 Nissan Sentra has manual transmission. 2002 Nissan Sentra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Sentra | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Sentra | 320 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 63 L |
