2006 BMW X3 vs. 1988 BMW 524
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 524. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 524 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
