2006 BMW 525 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 10 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 111 more horse power than 2006 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 525.
Because 2006 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (250 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
