2005 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Nissan 350Z. (300 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan 350Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 438 kg more than 2006 Nissan 350Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 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) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW M3. (337 Nm). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 3491 cc |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
