2003 BMW X3 vs. 1973 BMW 525
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. Both 2003 BMW X3 and 1973 BMW 525 are equipped with a 2,494 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1973 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1973 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 525. (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1973 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
