2009 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 63 kg more than 2009 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Maxima | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Maxima | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 63 L |
