2004 BMW X3 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 BMW X3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW X3 (184 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X3. (237 Nm). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X3 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
