2003 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | X3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 66 L |
