2003 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 352 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2009 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2009 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW X3 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | X3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1463 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |