1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Nissan NP300
To start off, 2012 Nissan NP300 is newer by 16 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 2012 Nissan NP300. (141 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan NP300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 146 kg more than 2012 Nissan NP300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NP300, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan NP300. (205 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan NP300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Nissan NP300 | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | NP300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2960 mm |
