2003 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Acura EL
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura EL would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1999 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1999 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 621 kg more than 1999 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Acura EL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Acura EL. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1999 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1999 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1999 Acura EL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | 520 | EL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2619 mm |
