1997 BMW M3 vs. 2013 BMW 5 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 5 Series is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,395 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW 5 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 5 Series (439 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 5 Series weights approximately 750 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 5 Series is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 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, 2013 BMW 5 Series (651 Nm) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2013 BMW 5 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2013 BMW 5 Series has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 BMW 5 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2013 BMW 5 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 5 Series |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 439 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0 :1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2094 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2968 mm |
