2008 BMW X3 vs. 1990 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1990 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
