2006 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2012 Nissan Patrol is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP) has 58 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Patrol. (280 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 1130 kg more than 2006 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Nissan Patrol is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Patrol (399 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (365 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan Patrol will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3. 2012 Nissan Patrol has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Nissan Patrol will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2012 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 4500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 280 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 2785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1995 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3075 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 98 L |
