2009 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 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 239 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 58 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, 2004 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) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
