2002 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 10 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Xterra. (261 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 285 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
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 Xterra (381 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
