2006 BMW 530 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 530 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2006 BMW 530. (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 530.
Because 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 530. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
