2003 BMW X3 vs. 1988 BMW 520
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. 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 1988 BMW 520. 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1988 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
