2003 BMW X3 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
