2001 BMW M3 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
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 M3 (330 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
