2005 Nissan Maxima vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (229 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 173 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (300 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Maxima | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Maxima | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 51 L |
