1996 BMW M3 vs. 2006 BMW X5
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 10 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, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2006 BMW X5. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2006 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, 2006 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X5. (290 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2006 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 93 L |
