2009 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2001 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
