2003 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Acura RL
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 RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura RL weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 BMW 520. 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 RL, 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, 1999 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 1999 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1999 Acura RL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | 520 | RL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
