1988 BMW 520 vs. 2009 BMW X5
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 BMW X5.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. 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 (476 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2009 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 476 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
