2008 BMW 525 vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 525 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4400 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 560 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1455 mm |
