2003 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Polo 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 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
