2008 BMW 530 vs. 1988 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 20 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 BMW 530.
Because 2008 BMW 530 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, 2008 BMW 530 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, 2008 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 530 | 1988 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
