1990 BMW 316 vs. 2001 Nissan Maxima

To start off, 2001 Nissan Maxima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Nissan Maxima (222 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 460 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2001 Nissan Maxima (293 Nm) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 2001 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2001 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2001 Nissan Maxima
Make BMW Nissan
Model 316 Maxima
Year Released 1990 2001
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2956 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 222 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 293 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1540 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2540 mm