1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 BMW X5
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 538 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2005 BMW X5 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 X5 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, 2005 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 520 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 93 L |
