2009 Nissan Altima vs. 2004 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 23 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 2004 BMW 316 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 2004 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Nissan Altima (181 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 2004 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Altima | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
