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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (214 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1988 Porsche 944.
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 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 944. (351 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 944. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Porsche 944 has manual transmission. 1988 Porsche 944 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 | 1988 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | X3 | 944 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 214 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 100.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2390 mm |
