2003 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 BMW X3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G 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:
2003 BMW X3 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | X3 | G |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Body Type | SUV | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 193 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80.2 mm |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1940 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |