1988 BMW M5 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2012 BMW X3. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 182 kg more than 1988 BMW M5.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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 X3 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5. 2012 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
