2003 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525. 2009 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. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
