2005 BMW M3 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 137 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 BMW M3 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW M3 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 525 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 323 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 372 Nm | 279 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |