1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2007 Nissan Maxima is newer by 11 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Maxima (255 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 300 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 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, 2007 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, 2007 Nissan Maxima (342 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2007 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 76 L |
