2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 319 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | X3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 76 L |
