2006 BMW X5 vs. 1988 BMW 524
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 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X5 (316 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 840 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 X5 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 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 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2006 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 524 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
