1996 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 1999 Nissan Xterra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1999 Nissan Xterra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Nissan Xterra 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, 1999 Nissan Xterra 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Xterra. 1999 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1999 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
