2008 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Sentra (126 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2004 Nissan Sentra.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 175 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Nissan Sentra has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Nissan Sentra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 2004 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 316 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
