2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z4 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
