1990 BMW 525 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 525 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
