2003 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Renault Scenic

To start off, 2011 Renault Scenic is newer by 8 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2011 Renault Scenic. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2011 Renault Scenic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2011 Renault Scenic. 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, 2011 Renault Scenic, 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, 2011 Renault Scenic (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Renault Scenic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2011 Renault Scenic has manual transmission. 2011 Renault Scenic 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 2011 Renault Scenic
Make BMW Renault
Model 520 Scenic
Year Released 2003 2011
Body Type Station Wagon Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1868 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 167 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 93 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 18.3:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.5 seconds 12.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1700 kg 1215 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4270 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1820 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.7 L/100km 6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L