1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 9 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Pathfinder. (270 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Pathfinder. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 499 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 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, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 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, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (395 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 395 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 2131 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
