1998 BMW 320 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 371 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2009 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1836 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
