2002 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Pathfinder. (266 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Pathfinder. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2008 Nissan Pathfinder. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder, 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, 2008 Nissan Pathfinder (391 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2008 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2008 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 391 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
