1997 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2013 Nissan Maxima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Maxima (286 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 176 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2013 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 318 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4843 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1467 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2775 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
