2009 BMW X5 vs. 1998 BMW M
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2009 BMW X5. (265 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X5.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW M. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X5 (576 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW M. (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW M. 2009 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW M has manual transmission. 1998 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1998 BMW M | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | M |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 51 L |
