2003 BMW X5 vs. 1996 BMW 528
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 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 BMW 528. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1996 BMW 528. 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 528. 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 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 528. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1996 BMW 528 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 528 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 70 L |
