2003 BMW X3 vs. 2011 BMW 530
To start off, 2011 BMW 530 is newer by 8 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 530 (271 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 530. 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, 2011 BMW 530 (310 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
