2004 BMW X3 vs. 2006 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 BMW X3. (184 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 188 kg more than 2006 BMW 525.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW 525. 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, 2006 BMW 525 (251 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X3. (237 Nm). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X3 | 2006 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
