2007 BMW X3 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1988 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
