2003 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Renault Fluence
To start off, 2004 Renault Fluence is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Fluence is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Fluence (276 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Fluence should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2004 Renault Fluence.
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, 2004 Renault Fluence, 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, 2004 Renault Fluence (366 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Renault Fluence will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2004 Renault Fluence 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. 2004 Renault Fluence will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2004 Renault Fluence | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 520 | Fluence |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
