2012 Nissan Altima vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 530 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 55 more horse power than 2008 BMW 530. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima.
Because 2008 BMW 530 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 2008 BMW 530. 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, 2008 BMW 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima. 2008 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Nissan Altima | 2008 BMW 530 | |
Make | Nissan | BMW |
Model | Altima | 530 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 270 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 349 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4595 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1796 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2675 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |