1992 BMW 520 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1992 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 397 kg more than 1992 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 520 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1392 mm |
