1990 BMW 520 vs. 2007 BMW X3
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 113 kg more than 1990 BMW 520. 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 1990 BMW 520. 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 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2007 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1655 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 |
