2003 BMW X3 vs. 1992 BMW 520
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1992 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 327 kg more than 1992 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 1992 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1992 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1992 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
