2003 BMW X3 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 (235 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 (246 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 190 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| 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 | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
