Germany vs West Germany — 1990 vs 1988
| M5 E34 | M5 E34 3.8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 340 hp |
| Torque | 266 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,535 cc | 3,795 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 5.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 13.6 sec |
| Weight | 3,770 lbs | 3,814 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,761 mm | 2,761 mm |
| Length | 4,720 mm | 4,720 mm |
| Units Produced | 12,254 | 12,254 |
| Original MSRP | $56,600 | $56,600 |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 6/10 |
The 1988 BMW M5 E34 3.8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 BMW M5 E34 counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The BMW M5 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1990 BMW M5 E34 with the 1988 BMW M5 E34 3.8 reveals how BMW refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1988 BMW M5 E34 3.8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 340 hp compared to 315 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M5 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V (S38B36) displacing 3,535 cc, while the BMW M5 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V with 3,795 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1988 BMW M5 E34 3.8 edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. Both cars have earned their place in automotive history and continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.