2009 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 7 kg more than 2009 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (181 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 318 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | 318 | Altima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 127 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |