1969 BMW 1600 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1969 BMW 1600. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1969 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 844 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 BMW 1600. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 BMW 1600 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 1600 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 67 L |
