2008 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW 528
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 528 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1996 BMW 528.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 528. 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, 1996 BMW 528 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW 528 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 528 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
