2003 Acura CL vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura CL would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura CL (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Acura CL.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Acura CL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura CL | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | CL | X3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
