1994 BMW M5 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M5 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 79 more horse power than 1994 BMW M5. (335 HP @ 6900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 99 kg more than 1994 BMW M5. 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, both vehicles can yield 400 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW M5 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3793 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1786 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18 L/100km | 18 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
