1986 BMW M5 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1986 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 77 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 BMW M5 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 65 L |
