2003 BMW X3 vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 5 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 160 kg more than 2008 BMW 525.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 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 | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
