2012 BMW X5 vs. 2008 BMW 523
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (300 HP) has 125 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 970 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 BMW X5 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 BMW X5 | 2008 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 406 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2250 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4854 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1933 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1775 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2933 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
