2003 BMW X3 vs. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice

To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. 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 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. (334 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW X3 1980 Chevrolet Caprice
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model X3 Caprice
Year Released 2003 1980
Body Type SUV Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2995 cc 5002 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 201 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 410 Nm 334 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 94.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 88.4 mm
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1930 kg 1720 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 5460 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 2020 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2950 mm