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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 45 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 15 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 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 55 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. 2009 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
