2003 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Land Rover Defender
To start off, 2006 Land Rover Defender is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2006 Land Rover Defender.
Because 2006 Land Rover Defender is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Land Rover Defender 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2006 Land Rover Defender | |
| Make | BMW | Land Rover |
| Model | M3 | Defender |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2498 cc |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
