2009 BMW 120 vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Nissan Altima (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | 120 | Altima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 100 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 73 L |