1998 BMW 320 vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X5 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 85 L |
