2004 BMW X3 vs. 1985 BMW M5
To start off, 2004 BMW X3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW M5 (256 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2004 BMW X3. (184 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 318 kg more than 1985 BMW M5.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 BMW X3 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, 1985 BMW M5 (290 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X3. (237 Nm). This means 1985 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X3 | 1985 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 16.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
