1995 BMW 317 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. 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 1995 BMW 317. 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 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW 317 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:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 317 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
