1990 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 64 kg more than 1990 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 520 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2776 mm |
