1988 BMW 524 vs. 2007 BMW X3
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (283 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 524. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 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, 2007 BMW X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2007 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 524 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
