2003 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Buick Century

To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1997 Buick Century. (165 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Buick Century. 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 1997 Buick Century. 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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Buick Century. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Buick Century.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW X3 1997 Buick Century
Make BMW Buick
Model X3 Century
Year Released 2003 1997
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 3135 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 165 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 251 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.6:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1840 kg 1520 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4950 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2780 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 9.1 L/100km 7.8 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 17.4 L/100km 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.1 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 64 L


 

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