2009 BMW 125 vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima

To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 19 kg more than 2009 BMW 125.

Because 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 125 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 125 1997 Nissan Maxima
Make BMW Nissan
Model 125 Maxima
Year Released 2009 1997
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 177 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1326 kg 1345 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2710 mm