1996 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Nissan Micra

To start off, 2006 Nissan Micra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Micra weights approximately 34 kg more than 1996 BMW 520.

Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Micra, 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, 1996 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan Micra.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 520 2006 Nissan Micra
Make BMW Nissan
Model 520 Micra
Year Released 1996 2006
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1990 cc 1386 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 87 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 128 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 73.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 82.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.9:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1496 kg 1530 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 46 L