1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Nissan Murano
To start off, 2012 Nissan Murano is newer by 15 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Murano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Murano (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Murano should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Murano weights approximately 491 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Nissan Murano, 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, 2012 Nissan Murano (325 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan Murano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Nissan Murano | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Murano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1791 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4823 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2824 mm |
