1999 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Nissan Maxima

To start off, 2006 Nissan Maxima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Maxima (265 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 110 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 318 2006 Nissan Maxima
Make BMW Nissan
Model 318 Maxima
Year Released 1999 2006
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 3491 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 265 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 168 Nm 346 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1555 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2830 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 76 L