2004 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 BMW 530 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 530 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Because 2012 BMW 530 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 530. 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, 2012 BMW 530 (540 Nm) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 2012 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Altima | 530 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2505 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
