2003 BMW X3 vs. 1988 Porsche 944

To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1988 Porsche 944. (160 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 549 kg more than 1988 Porsche 944. 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 1988 Porsche 944. 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 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 944. (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 944.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW X3 1988 Porsche 944
Make BMW Porsche
Model X3 944
Year Released 2003 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2479 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 189 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 205 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 100 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 78.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.4:1
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1815 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 66 L