1995 BMW 317 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 13 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 463 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317. 2008 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. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 317 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
