2008 BMW X3 vs. 1977 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1977 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1977 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
