1988 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Xterra is newer by 23 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 804 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 2011 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, 2011 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, 2011 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
