2003 BMW X3 vs. 2006 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2006 Toyota Highlander 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 3,308 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 475 kg more than 2006 Toyota Highlander.
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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (301 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2006 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | X3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 72 L |
