1994 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2012 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 520.
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 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW M3. (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW M3. 2012 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1994 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1994 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 520 |
Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 281 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |