1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 840 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 2006 Nissan Pathfinder is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder 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, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder (403 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2006 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2006 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 403 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
