2008 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 800 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW X3 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 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Stanza has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Stanza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 1981 Nissan Stanza
Make BMW Nissan
Model X3 Stanza
Year Released 2008 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1809 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 87 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1740 kg 940 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2480 mm