1995 BMW S3 vs. 2004 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Maxima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Maxima. (261 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2004 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Nissan Maxima (347 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2004 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2004 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | S3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
