2003 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 6 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 2,987 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 458 kg more than 2003 BMW X3.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2987 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 2298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
