2001 BMW 520 vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,619 cc, 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2001 BMW 520.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW 520. 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 (480 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 520. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 520 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:
| 2001 BMW 520 | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 4619 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 93 L |
