2009 BMW X5 vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 BMW X5.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Acura RL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 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, 2009 BMW X5 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | X5 | RL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 50 L |
