1988 BMW 525 vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1988 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 BMW X3 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
