2008 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 172 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | M3 | Altima |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 339 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |