1997 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Nissan Primera
To start off, 2008 Nissan Primera is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Primera. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Primera weights approximately 199 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Primera, 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, 2008 Nissan Primera (314 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2008 Nissan Primera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2008 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Primera |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2182 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 314 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
