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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 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 515 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
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 | 2995 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 13.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 100 L |
