2005 BMW 325 vs. 1996 Nissan Maxima

To start off, 2005 BMW 325 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1996 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 325 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 2005 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 325 1996 Nissan Maxima
Make BMW Nissan
Model 325 Maxima
Year Released 2005 1996
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 189 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 178 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1495 kg 1345 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2710 mm