2009 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 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 144 more horse power than 2011 Nissan Altima. (270 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 192 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, 2011 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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Altima. (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Altima.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 2011 Nissan Altima
Make BMW Nissan
Model M3 Altima
Year Released 2009 2011
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 414 HP 270 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 349 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1512 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4595 mm
Vehicle Width 1400 mm 1796 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2675 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 76 L


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]