2001 BMW 318 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 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 53 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. 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 2001 BMW 318. 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 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 318 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:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
