2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2012 Nissan 370Z is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 28 kg more than 2001 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Nissan 370Z (366 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (330 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4247 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2550 mm |
