2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2012 BMW Z4. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 65 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Nissan Maxima | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Nissan | BMW |
Model | Maxima | Z4 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 261 HP | 244 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 346 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2497 mm |