2004 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z

To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (174 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 503 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.

Because 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 320. (211 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 320 2008 Nissan 350Z
Make BMW Nissan
Model 320 350Z
Year Released 2004 2008
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 3497 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 174 HP 306 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 211 Nm 363 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 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 1615 kg 1112 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2660 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 76 L