M-Series (M1, M3, M5, M6)General M-Series Discussion - If it does not fit into a more specific M Category above, please place it in here. In addition, previously archived M-Series discussion is located in this section.
BimmerWerkz.com is the premier BMW Forum on the internet. Registered Users do not see the above ads.
I was just wondering if someone with more knowledge than me would fill me in on why the M5 should be faster than the M3, but isn't... I hope i don't sound like too much of a dumbass when I say... does 600 ilbs really make that much of a difference? I know that's a lot of weight but it is that drastic of an affect?
i really don't have much knowledge on the m series to help you here. we do have several members with m3's and few with m5's. maybe they will share their knowledge and help you with the information you are seeking.
I believe the answer to your question to be found in the gearing of both cars. Not sure if they've got the same transmission but they've probably got a different differential.
However, I'm not really sure to be perfectly honest.
Kevin
__________________ Kevin (President TBEA)
"WAAAAAAARRRRRIORS, come out to plaaaaay."
well, an M3 is only 2 doors, while an M5 is 4 doors
lol its the obvious but its the main difference that each one is seperated by and each is defined by. M5 being the great sports sedan that can be good for family and heavy driving when you want it. The M3 beign the pure sports machine.
__________________
1995 BMW M3 Turbo - Dakar/Black
In my own experience, and the experiences of friends of mine, every 100 Lbs or so equals approximately 8 Horsepower. So, 6 x 8 = 48. 394 - 48 = 346. So, the M5 still has more Horsepower. Although, horsepower isn't all that effects it. As Kevin325i stated, gearing also plays a major part in flat-out acceleration, and top speed. Also, because the M5 has so much more torque, and makes it so much sooner, it would obviously be quite a 'bit more difficult to gain good traction. Although, this is just pure speculation. Also, shifter "notchiness" or clutch pedal "stiffness" can effect acceleration times, as well. As you can see there are quite a few aspects of a car that can effect many different things. Any of those particular aspects, and probably many more that I haven't even thought of, could be why the M5 isn't as fast as it should, supposedly, be.
Thanks for your replies everyone! I've got a 92 325i right now, but want to get an M-series soon, probably M3, but was curious about the M5. (BTW The new concept M5's look AWESOME.)
That's easy. I have an e39 m5 and im not being biast but definetely the m5 is a way better car all around. I've driven both cars to their fullest extent, from what i can tell you the m3 is sweet if you want a small car that can handle. There's a little bit less body lean when you're driving the m3 only beacuse its alot smaller and weighs alot less. You won't have to worry about oversteering either. It doesnt have much of that.. The m5 has a little bit more oversteer but it makes up for it on turns by keeping it at around 4k rpms because you can come out of any turns and just pull like no other. On a straight away the m3 will pull if its off the line but on the freeway without downshifting both cars have good reaction time with on the gas petal, pretty much instantaneous. 1st gear on both cars u can hit about 45, 2nd u can do around 70, third is where you notice the difference..the m3, trying pretty hard, can hit about 95 but i've broken 100 on 3rd in the m5. from there the m5 will pull because of the momentum and more spread gear differencials. Its only a slight difference but yeah.. m5 is made for highend. when they both reach about 145-155+ thats when you can start to notice the difference. One tries alot harder than the other, but what can you expect from an v6 333 hp.. that engine is already pushing its limits, maybe thats why there's a record number of blown e46 m3 engines set in the first year of its release. Dont really hear ppl blowing their m5 engines. shits made to take an asskicking. Other than all of that.. they have the same feel clutch, the stock shifter of the m3 is alot better than the m5, the gears are too far from each other, maybe thats when you need a short throw.
Originally posted by Bret@May 18 2004, 10:36 AM I think the M5 should be the same as the M3, not faster. And the reason is the extra 600lbs. Think of it this way
3415lbs / 333hp = 10.26lbs per hp
4024lbs / 394hp = 10.21lbs per hp
Both cars have virtually the exact same power to weight ratio, therefor neither should be faster than the other.
except for gearing ya n00b
one could have nice gearing for low speed acceleration and the other could have more top end power
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
B) 
Linear Mode
