2001 BMW M vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 121 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M | 1996 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M | 520 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 320 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 345 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1496 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |