2003 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2006 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z, 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 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | M3 | 350Z |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3491 cc |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 353 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1252 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 76 L |