2003 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Suzuki XL7
To start off, 2006 Suzuki XL7 is newer by 3 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 2,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Suzuki XL7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Suzuki XL7 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Suzuki XL7 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520.
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, 2006 Suzuki XL7, 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, 2006 Suzuki XL7 (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Suzuki XL7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2006 Suzuki XL7 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. 2006 Suzuki XL7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2006 Suzuki XL7 | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 520 | XL7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
