1996 BMW M3 vs. 2013 BMW 5 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 5 Series is newer by 17 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 90 more horse power than 2013 BMW 5 Series. (238 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 BMW 5 Series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 5 Series weights approximately 183 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2013 BMW 5 Series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2013 BMW 5 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 5 Series |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2094 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
