2003 BMW X3 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 2 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 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2005 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 BMW M3. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
