1996 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2003 Nissan Xterra is newer by 7 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2003 Nissan Xterra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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, 2003 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 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2003 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
