1996 BMW 520 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 1996 BMW 520 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 236 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 234 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 247 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
