2001 BMW X5 vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2001 BMW X5 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2001 BMW X5. (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1998 Acura RL.
Because 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Acura RL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 BMW X5 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW X5 | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | X5 | RL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 50 L |
