1981 BMW 745 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 BMW 745.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 745. 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 745 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 745 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 745 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 67 L |
