2007 BMW 530 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 BMW 530 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2007 BMW 530.
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, 2007 BMW 530 (300 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 530 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
