1996 BMW M3 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 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 208 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | X3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2492 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1680 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |