1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 7 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 113 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima, 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 Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | Z3 | Maxima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |