2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 73 L |
