1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 BMW M5
To start off, 2004 BMW M5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2004 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M5 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. 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, 2004 BMW M5 (520 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2004 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 4999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 520 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1758 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
