2008 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (260 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 57 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. 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, 2005 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (334 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (330 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 320 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
