2003 BMW X3 vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2011 Nissan Frontier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | X3 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
