2007 BMW X5 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 BMW X5 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2007 BMW X5. (202 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X5 weights approximately 619 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2007 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X5 (480 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2007 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X5 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2099 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 63 L |
