2003 BMW X3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (286 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 460 kg more than 2003 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (511 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 2300 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 93 L |
