2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 BMW 520 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 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 142 more horse power than 2009 BMW 520. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 520 weights approximately 35 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, 2009 BMW 520 (350 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
