1996 BMW 525 vs. 2007 BMW X3
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 362 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. 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 1996 BMW 525. 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 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2007 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
