1980 BMW M5 vs. 2003 BMW X5
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 804 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 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 X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5. 2003 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2003 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 2195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 93 L |
