1999 BMW M5 vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,900 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW M5 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 BMW M5 (499 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (330 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Top Speed | 295 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
