1996 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 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 149 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 43 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 525. 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 525 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
