2003 BMW X3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (303 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 735 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 455 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW X3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | X3 | GL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 303 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3080 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 100 L |