2003 BMW X3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 400 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 R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| 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 | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
