2006 BMW X5 vs. 1988 BMW 520
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,392 cc, 2006 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X5 (315 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 665 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X5 (439 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 1988 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4392 cc | 1989 cc |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2235 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 70 L |
