2009 BMW X5 vs. 2001 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2001 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 520 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 BMW X5.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW 520. 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 (476 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 520. 2009 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 2001 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 476 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
