1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 350Z is newer by 12 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 350Z (309 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Nissan 350Z (358 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1340 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
