1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2008 Nissan Frontier is newer by 12 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 1150 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 2008 Nissan Frontier 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, 2008 Nissan Frontier 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, 2008 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
