1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 BMW 530
To start off, 2005 BMW 530 is newer by 9 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 530 weights approximately 150 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.
Because 2005 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 530. (300 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
