2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 609 kg more than 2009 BMW 525. 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 2009 BMW 525. 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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
