1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2001 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2001 Nissan Xterra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 325 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2001 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
