2009 BMW M3 vs. 1991 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1991 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 525.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 525. (260 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1991 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
