2005 BMW 520 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW 520 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2005 BMW 520. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 520 weights approximately 82 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 520. (210 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 520 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
