1991 BMW 525 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (240 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1991 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1991 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 BMW X3 (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 525. (260 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 525. 2012 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 525 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1865 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 | 80 L | 67 L |
