2003 BMW X3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 352 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
