1996 BMW M3 vs. 1983 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 488 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1983 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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 M3 (305 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1983 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Patrol |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 2076 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2980 mm |
