2003 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Vibe 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 19 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 498 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. 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, 2001 Pontiac Vibe, 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) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (177 Nm). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Vibe 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 | 2001 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 520 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 177 Nm |
| 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 | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
