1996 BMW 520 vs. 2010 BMW X5
To start off, 2010 BMW X5 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW X5 (555 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 405 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW X5 weights approximately 939 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 BMW X5 (677 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 487 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2010 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2010 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 555 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 677 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 2435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1994 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1763 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2934 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
