2001 BMW 320 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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 184 kg more than 2001 BMW 320. 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 320. 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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 320. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 320 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 320 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
