1987 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1987 BMW 320. (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW 320 weights approximately 88 kg more than 2008 Nissan Xterra.
Because 1987 BMW 320 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 1987 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra, 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320. 2008 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 320 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
