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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 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 582 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) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 520 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
