2003 BMW X3 vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW Z4. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2006 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
