Germany vs Germany — 1988 vs 2022
| M5 E34 | i4 M50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 536 hp |
| Torque | 266 lb-ft | 586 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,535 cc | — |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 3.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 12.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,638 lbs | 4,884 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,761 mm | 2,856 mm |
| Length | 4,720 mm | 4,783 mm |
| Units Produced | 12,254 | — |
| Original MSRP | $56,600 | $67,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1988 BMW M5 E34 brings higher top speed, lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2022 BMW i4 M50 answers with more power, quicker acceleration. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
BMW has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1988 BMW M5 E34 with the 2022 BMW i4 M50 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2022 BMW i4 M50 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 536 hp compared to 315 hp, a 221-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Inline-6 DOHC 24V in the BMW M5 versus a Dual electric motors in the BMW i4. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2022 BMW i4 M50 edges ahead at 3.7 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. The BMW M5 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1246 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1988 BMW M5 E34 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.