2003 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Porsche Boxster. 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche Boxster has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 | 1997 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | X3 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2360 mm |
