1988 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 359 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1988 BMW M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (201 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 67 L |
