Originally Posted by ChrisSlicks

With snow tires on the Z you will out brake and out handle the Altima with all seasons in snowy conditions. FWD's are easier to drive because you can mash the gas pedal at any time and not get into trouble but in reality are inferior to RWD cars in snowy conditions because you can only steer the car with one end. With RWD cars you can steer the car with both ends by modulating the throttle input. It will take a bit of practice if you've never done it before so try and find some quiet spots to practice before you have to deal with traffic. The VDC should keep the car going straight most of the time and will limit wheel spin.