2003 BMW X5 vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X5 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2012 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Toyota Highlander. 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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Highlander. 2012 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | X5 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 73 L |
