2001 BMW 320 vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 320 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 412 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320.
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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 320. (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
