2003 BMW M3 vs. 1988 BMW 525

To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 15 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 163 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525. 1988 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW M3 1988 BMW 525
Make BMW BMW
Model M3 525
Year Released 2003 1988
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 2441 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 240 HP 165 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 239 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.8 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.8:1
Top Speed 220 km/hour 203 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1442 kg 1605 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 70 L


 

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