2006 BMW X5 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2006 BMW X5. (282 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 540 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X5 (441 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2006 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.9 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 63 L |
