1991 BMW M12 vs. 2006 BMW 545
To start off, 2006 BMW 545 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
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, both vehicles can yield 450 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 BMW 545 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 545 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2006 BMW 545 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 545 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2890 mm |
