1996 BMW 545 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 545 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1996 BMW 545.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 545. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 BMW 545 (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 545 | 2009 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 545 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
