1988 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 24 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (244 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 854 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 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 BMW X5 (540 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2012 BMW X5 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. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 85 L |
