2006 BMW M5 vs. 1988 BMW M6
To start off, 2006 BMW M5 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M6 would be higher. At 4,998 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1988 BMW M6. (282 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M5 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1988 BMW M6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 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, 2006 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M6. (334 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M5 | 1988 BMW M6 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | M6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4998 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
