2003 BMW X3 vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 5 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2008 BMW 530.
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, 2008 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
