2004 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 385 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Because 2012 BMW M5 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 M5. 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 M5 (680 Nm) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm). This means 2012 BMW M5 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 M5 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Altima | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2505 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1455 mm |
