1996 BMW M3 vs. 2007 BMW 530
To start off, 2007 BMW 530 is newer by 11 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 2007 BMW 530. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 530 weights approximately 2 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 2007 BMW 530 (480 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2007 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2991 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 | 480 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
