1995 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1995 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW M3. 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, 1995 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1995 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW M3 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 M3 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
