1995 BMW M5 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,794 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M5 (335 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1995 BMW M5.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 1995 BMW M5 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1995 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW M5 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3794 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
