2003 BMW X3 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2005 BMW 525.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
