1980 BMW M5 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (189 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1980 BMW M5.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
