1988 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 340 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2006 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
