2005 BMW X5 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 970 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 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, 2005 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X5 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 62 L |
