1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 13 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Frontier. (261 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Frontier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2009 Nissan Frontier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3200 mm |
