2003 BMW X5 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 684 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2003 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 70 L |
