1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 BMW M5
To start off, 2006 BMW M5 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 4,998 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M5 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2006 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 4998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 519 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
