2006 BMW M6 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 BMW M6 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,997 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 BMW M6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M6 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M6 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3.
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, 2006 BMW M6 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M6 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
