2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2003 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | X3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 480 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
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 | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3000 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |