1988 BMW M3 vs. 2007 BMW 525
To start off, 2007 BMW 525 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 525 weights approximately 269 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 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, 2007 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2007 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2007 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
