1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (270 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 501 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 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, 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 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 395 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2131 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
