1991 BMW M12 vs. 2013 BMW 5 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 5 Series is newer by 22 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, 2013 BMW 5 Series (439 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
Because 2013 BMW 5 Series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW M12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series 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, 2013 BMW 5 Series (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW M12. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 5 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW M12. 2013 BMW 5 Series 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. 2013 BMW 5 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2013 BMW 5 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 5 Series |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 4395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 439 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0 :1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 2094 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2968 mm |
